Variable stiffness actuator with electrically modulated stiffness

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United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 11407105
APP PUB NO 20210129323A1
SERIAL NO

17122936

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ATTORNEY / AGENT: (SPONSORED)

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Abstract

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A dielectric elastomer system (DES) variable stiffness actuator (VSA) is provided. In an embodiment, the DES VSA includes a variable stiffness module (VSM). The VSM includes a DES that softens when energized and stiffens when unpowered, an outer frame, and an inner frame member. The stiffness of the DES is variable. The outer frame supports the DES and the inner frame member, which is disposed within the DES. The inner frame member is configured to be displaceable with respect to the outer frame. The DES VSA also includes an actuation motor mechanically coupled to the inner frame member that is configured to cause a force to be applied to the inner frame member and the actuation motor is configured to control an equilibrium position of the DES VSA.

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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
BOARD OF REGENTS THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM210 WEST 7TH STREET AUSTIN TX 78701

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Allen, David P Richardson, US 12 110
Bolivar, Edgar A Richardson, US 2 2
Gregg,, IV Robert D Richardson, US 1 0
Voit, Walter E Dallas, US 10 14

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